Photography mode input systems

Abstract

A photography mode input system for inputting any selected one of a plurality of predetermined optional photography modes into a camera having a microcomputer for controlling exposure. The system comprises a series of cards each having a different signal element pattern such as a notch pattern each respectively corresponding to an optional photography mode, and a switch array for detecting the signal element pattern. The switch array is disposed in a slot formed in a holder on the camera, and is connected to the microcomputer. The card is made of opaque plastic material or paper. The switch array comprises a series of switches each outputting a binary signal depending on whether each switch detects a notch, and the binary signals from the switches are read out as a binary code, on the basis of which the corresponding optional photography mode is set in the camera.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A photography mode input system for inputting an optional photography mode into a camera having a microcomputer for controlling exposure, comprising: a card member having a signal element pattern corresponding to a predetermined optional photography mode, said card member being provided with graphic information indicating a corresponding photography mode; and   detecting means for detecting said signal element pattern, said detecting means being disposed on said camera and connected t said microcomputer, wherein said detecting means detect the presence or absence of signal elements constituting said signal element pattern, said signal elements occupying different respective predetermined positions on said card member.   
     
     
       2. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 1, wherein said card member is made of opaque plastic material. 
     
     
       3. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 1, wherein said card member is made of opaque paper. 
     
     
       4. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 1, wherein said graphic information on said card member is a photograph taken under an exposure condition corresponding to the photography mode of said card. 
     
     
       5. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 1, wherein said signal element pattern is disposed in one edge of said card member. 
     
     
       6. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 5, wherein said detecting means comprises a switch array disposed in a slot provided in said camera, said slot receiving at least said one edge of said card member. 
     
     
       7. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 6, wherein said slot is formed in a holder mounted on a body of said camera. 
     
     
       8. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 7, wherein said holder is pivotally mounted on said camera body. 
     
     
       9. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 7, wherein said holder is formed with an observation window through which a said card member inserted in said slot is visible. 
     
     
       10. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 6, wherein said switch array comprises a series of switches each outputting a binary signal depending on whether each said switch detects a said signal element, and said binary signals from said switches are read out as a binary code. 
     
     
       11. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 10, wherein said binary code is read out upon half depression of a shutter button of said camera. 
     
     
       12. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 10, wherein said binary code is read out upon a predetermined one of said switches detecting insertion of a said card member. 
     
     
       13. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 10, wherein each said signal element is a cut-out formed in said one edge of said card member. 
     
     
       14. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 13, wherein each said switch is a photo-interrupter including a light emitter and a light receiver between which said one edge of said card member is positioned, and a said cut-out is detected when a said light receiver receives light from a said light emitter. 
     
     
       15. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 14, wherein each said cut-out is formed as a window. 
     
     
       16. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 13, wherein each said cut-out is formed as a notch. 
     
     
       17. A photography mode input system as defined in claim 16, wherein each said switch is a pushbutton switch which is depressed by an area having no notch in said one edge when said card is inserted in said slot, and a said notch is detected when a said pushbutton switch is not depressed.